JP2021526055A - Light activation device for washing machines - Google Patents

Abstract

A light activating device (100) deployed in a washing machine for activating one or more photoactive components in a washing treatment composition, the light for activating one or more photoactive components. The controller (180) comprises a light source (160) configured to emit light, a controller (180), a switch and / or a motion detection unit (170), and the controller (180) is a switch and / or motion detection unit (170). A light activator is provided that is configured to control the light source (160) in response to a signal received from).

Description

A photoactivating device for activating one or more photoactive components contained in a washing treatment composition for arranging in the washing space of a washing machine, wherein the photoactivating device optionally photoactivates. A light activating device having a chemical ability.

The advantages of using photoactive ingredients in laundry compositions have been described in the art for, for example, improving stain removal and removing microorganisms such as bacteria and spores.

A problem in the art is the effective and uniform activation of photoactive ingredients in cleaning solvents (eg water). If the activation light source is provided in a fixed arrangement within the washing machine, the photoactive component will be activated only in the vicinity of the fixed source, and the laundry and washing solvent (eg water) will be well agitated. This means that it is necessary to ensure uniform exposure to the light source.

A further problem in the art is the partial effect of light-activating products such as bleaching, where if the light source is too long or too bright, the laundry that is too close to the light source will be partially whitened and colored. The laundry may have discoloration or whitening areas that are particularly noteworthy.

A further problem in the art is the controlled release of photoactivated products. Due to the short life of photoactivated products, it is necessary to control and sustainably release photoactivation at the same time as or in order to act synergistically with other components in the laundry composition.

A further problem in the art is how to introduce the effects of photoactive ingredients into older washing machines, that is, washing machines that do not have a suitable light source.

An object of the present invention is to provide devices, kits, and methods for overcoming problems in the art.

Provided herein is a light activating device (100) deployed in a washing machine for activating one or more photoactive ingredients in a washing composition.
-A light source (160) configured to emit light for activation of one or more photoactive ingredients, and
-Controller (180) and
-Switch and / or motion detection unit (170), in which the controller (180) responds to the switch and / or the signal received from the motion detection unit (170), the light source (160). With a switch and / or motion detection unit, which is configured to control
-Optionally, the light activator (100)
-With a body (110) defining a cavity (120) for receiving and holding the washing composition,
-A photoactivation device further comprising an opening (130) into the cavity (120), which is configured to receive the washing composition.

Further provided herein is a light activating device (100) deployed in a washing machine for holding a washing treatment composition containing one or more photoactive ingredients.
-With a body (110) defining a cavity (120) for receiving and holding the washing composition,
-With an opening (130) into the cavity (120), which is configured to receive the washing composition.
-With a light source (160) configured to emit light for activation of one or more photoactive ingredients.
Arbitrarily
The light activator (100)
-Controller (180) and
-A switch and / or motion detection unit (170), in which the controller (180) responds to the switch and / or the signal received from the motion detection unit (170) to the light source (160). A light activation device further comprising a switch and / or an motion detection unit configured to control the.

The controller (180) responds to a signal received from the motion detection unit (170) indicating a fixed position and / or orientation of the light activator (100) for one or more pieces of laundry in the washing machine. The controller (180) may optionally be configured to control the light source (160) in response to the centrifugal acceleration measured by the motion detection unit (170) ^{at least 20 m / s 2.} , It is configured to reduce the light emitted by the light source (160).

The controller (180) is the light emitted by the light source (160) when the signal of the motion detection unit (170) corresponds to the inactivity period of the washing machine stirring unit configured to guide the movement of the laundry. May be configured to reduce.

The signal of the motion detection unit (170) is
-The movement of the light activating device (100), which is synchronized with the movement of the washing machine stirring unit configured to induce the movement of the laundry and the light activating device (100), optionally. The centrifugal acceleration measured by the motion detection unit (170) is constant, moving,
Or-when corresponding to the dehydration cycle of the washing machine, optionally corresponding to a dehydration cycle in which the centrifugal acceleration measured by the motion detection unit (170) is at least 80 m / sec ^2.
The controller (180) may be configured to reduce the light emitted by the light source (160).

The motion detection unit (170) may include one or more accelerometers and / or one or more orientation sensors.

The light source (160) may include a plurality of LEDs, at least some of which are internal emitters (160a) arranged to emit light within the cavity (120).

The light source (160) may include a plurality of LEDs, at least some of which are external emitters (160b) arranged to emit light into the exterior space.

At least one of the external emitters (160b) is optionally within the PT region (162), which is a region that occupies ≤50% of the outer surface of the light activator (100). It may be arranged in the base portion (112) of (100).

The light activator (100) may further include a power source (190), optionally including a non-rechargeable battery, a rechargeable battery, a capacitor, an induction coil, or a generator. ..

The light source (160) includes at least two LEDs, each emitting light in a different wavelength range.

Further provided herein are kits.
-A light activating device (100) deployed in a washing machine for activating one or more photoactive ingredients in a washing composition.
-With a light source (160) configured to emit light for activation of one or more photoactive ingredients.
-Optionally, the light activator (100)
-With a body (110) defining a cavity (120) for receiving and holding the washing composition,
-A photoactivation device further comprising an opening (130) into the cavity (120), which is configured to receive the washing composition.
In addition
-Container unit (500) for storage and distribution of laundry compositions containing one or more photoactive ingredients,
And / or-a kit comprising a washing composition comprising one or more photoactive ingredients, optionally housed in a container unit (500).

This photoactivation device (100) is the photoactivation device (100) described herein.

One or more photoactive ingredients may be selected from riboflavin, phloxine B, erythrosin, or salts thereof.

The container unit (500) may include connecting elements (115, 538) configured to attach the light activator (100) to the container unit (500) in a removable and repeatable manner.

The container unit (500) may be arranged with the container power supply (592) and the induction coil (594) operably arranged with respect to the connecting element (115,538) and may be arranged at the connecting element (115,538). It is configured to charge the rechargeable power supply (190) of the attached light activator (100).

The cross-sectional view of the light activator described in this specification is shown. The cross-sectional view of the light activator described in this specification is shown. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a photoactivation device described herein, including an opening into a cavity, a motion detection unit and a controller. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a photoactivation device described herein with an opening into a cavity, a motion detection unit and controller, and a pretreatment (PT) region. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a photoactivation device described herein with vents to the cavity, motion detection units and controllers, and a pretreatment (PT) region. FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the photoactivation apparatus described herein, including a motion detection unit and controller, and a pretreatment (PT) region. A cross-sectional view of a different form of the photoactivation device described herein is shown. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a container unit for a washing composition with a cap. A cross-sectional view of a container unit and a photoactivation device detachably attached to a cap is shown. A cross-sectional view of a container unit with a cap and a light activator detachably attached to a lateral protrusion is shown. FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the container unit of FIG. 10 with an electromagnetic induction charging assembly and a light activator detachably attached to a lateral protrusion. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a container unit for a laundry composition, including a lid, a magnetic attachment for attachment to a photoactivation device, and an electromagnetic induction charging assembly. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a container unit for a laundry composition, including a lid, a magnetic attachment for attachment to a photoactivation device, and an electromagnetic induction charging assembly. Indicates different states of the washing machine, corresponding to the movement of the light activator, corresponding to the mode and state of the light activator, and corresponding to the output from the light source.

Prior to the description of the devices, kits and methods of the invention, such devices, kits and methods and combinations thereof can of course vary, so the invention describes the particular devices, kits and methods described or Please understand that it is not limited to these combinations. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are not intended to be limiting, as the scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.

As used herein, the singular "a", "an", and "the" include both singular and plural objects, unless explicitly stated in the context.

As used herein, the terms "comprising," "comprises," and "comprised of" are "including," "includes," and Or synonymous with "containing", "contains", inclusive or open-ended, and does not exclude additional, unlisted components, elements, or method steps. As used herein, the terms "comprising," "comprises," and "comprised of" are the terms "consisting of," "from. It will be understood to include "consists" and "consists of".

The enumeration of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions contained within each range, as well as the enumerated endpoints.

As used herein, the term "about" or "approximately", when referring to measurable values such as parameters, quantities, and duration of time, +/- 10 from a particular value. It means to include variations of% or less, preferably +/- 5% or less, more preferably +/- 1% or less, and even more preferably +/- 0.1% or less, which is such. This is because the variation is suitable for implementation in the disclosed invention. It should be understood that the value pointed to by the modifier "about" or "approximately" is also specifically and preferably disclosed in itself.

For example, the terms "one or more" or "at least one", such as one or more or at least one member (s) of a group of members, are further exemplified. By doing so, it is self-evident, among other things, for any one of the aforementioned members, or any two or more of the aforementioned members, eg, any ≧ 3 of the aforementioned members. , ≧ 4, ≧ 5, ≧ 6, or ≧ 7, and at most all references to the aforementioned members are included.

All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Specifically, the teachings of all references specifically referenced herein are incorporated by reference.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the disclosure of the present invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. .. By further guidance, definitions of terms are included to better understand the teachings of the present invention.

In the following sections, different aspects of the invention are defined in more detail. Each aspect so defined can be combined with any other aspect or aspects unless explicitly stated otherwise. In particular, any feature shown as preferred or advantageous can be combined with any other feature or features shown as preferred or advantageous.

References to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" throughout this specification refer to specific features, structures, or properties described in connection with this embodiment. It is meant to be included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the appearance of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily mean that all of them refer to the same embodiment. No, but you can point to it. Moreover, certain features, structures, or properties can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the present disclosure. Moreover, while some embodiments described herein do not include some other features contained in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are within the scope of the invention. That means, forming different embodiments, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, in the appended claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

In the present description of the present invention, the accompanying drawings forming a part thereof are referred to, but in these drawings, only specific embodiments in which the present invention can be carried out are shown as examples. The parenthesized or bold reference numbers attached to each element are merely exemplary examples and are not intended to limit each element thereby. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be construed in a limited sense and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

Provided herein are photoactivation devices deployed in a washing machine for washing one or more pieces of laundry. The light activator is configured to be detachably deployed or installed in the washing space of the washing machine. The washing space is arranged in relation to a stirring unit configured to induce the movement of the laundry. The force provided by the agitation unit is applied to the light activator, thereby causing a temporary movement of the light activator with respect to one or more pieces of laundry. The light activator comprises a light source configured to emit light for activating one or more photoactive components. When the light activator is guided to move across the washing space, complete activation of one or more photoactive components is achieved as compared to a fixed externally stimulating light source. The light activating device retrofits all washing machines with a light activating ability.

The light activation device is configured to be installed in the washing space of the washing machine. The washing space holds the fabric to be washed and may be at least partially filled with a washing solvent (eg water) and is typically associated with a stirring unit configured to induce the movement of the laundry. Is placed. The washing space of the automatic washing machine typically includes the interior of the drum, and the stirring unit is provided in a rotational arrangement with respect to the drum. The washing machine may be a drum type or a vertical type. Another example of a washing space is a cylindrical or cubic space in which the stirring unit contains a rotating paddle, a stirrer, or one or more water jets that provide stirring.

For example, the light activating device (100) as shown in FIG. 1 includes a main body (110) arranged together with a light source (160). The light source (160) is configured to emit light for activating one or more photoactive ingredients. The body (110) may have an overall rounded shape, such as a sphere, an elliptical sphere, or a rounded cube, which allows movement between laundry in the entire washing space of the washing machine and laundry. Helps reduce resistance between articles. The outer surface of the body (110) may be smooth to reduce friction, optionally with a friction reducing material such as one containing polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or Teflon®. It may be coated.

The body (110) of the light activator (100) may include a wall. The wall may be curved. The wall may be curved to form a sphere or elliptical sphere, or other rounded shape. The light source is arranged in the wall so as to emit light outward from the wall.

The body (110) of the light activator (100) may include a base portion (112) and a side wall (114) extending typically upward from the base portion (112). The base portion (112) may have a circular or elliptical contour or another geometry. The base portion (112) may be essentially flat. The side wall (114) may be curved. The side wall (114) may be curved to form a dome or other rounded shape. The overall shape of the light activator (100) may be spherical or elliptical ball-shaped to assist movement between laundry items throughout the washing space of the washing machine.

The body (110) of the light activator (100) may define a cavity (120). The cavity (120) may be empty. The cavity (120) may include an inert material (eg, a polymeric material) to increase the weight of the photoactivating device (100) and / or change the center of gravity. The body (110) is provided with one or more ventilation ports (118), and the cavity (120) is flooded with a cleaning solvent (eg, water) or a photoactive component dissolved or suspended in the cleaning solvent. Alternatively, it may be drained. The main body (110) may be provided with an opening (130) with respect to the cavity (120) as a passage for the washing treatment composition, preferably by injecting water into the body (see below).

The light activator (100) is sized to fit within the washing space of the washing machine. The light activator (100) is portable and can be used in any washing machine. The light activator (100) is autonomous.

The body (110) may be formed from one or more polymeric materials, including, for example, polypropylene, polycarbonate.

For example, the photoactivating device (100) shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 includes a main body (110) that defines a cavity (120) for receiving the washing treatment composition. It further comprises an opening (130) for the cavity (120). The opening (130) may have a circular or oval shape, or other geometric shape. The washing composition can enter the cavity (120) through the opening (130). The opening (130) is configured to receive the washing composition, preferably by pouring water into it. Through the same opening (130), the washing composition can exit the cavity (120) during the washing cycle. The opening (130) is configured to allow the washing composition to pass outward. The cavity (120) makes it possible to deliver the usage of the washing composition to the washing space. The cavity (120) may be configured to hold the washing composition when the photoactivating device (100) is placed on its base portion (112). By defining the volume of the cavity, the correct usage can be delivered to the laundry space. Cavity (120) ^may have a volume of 10cm ³ ~300cm 3.

For example, the photoactivating device (100) shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 includes a main body (110) that defines a cavity (120). The cavity (120) may be empty or may be equipped with a stabilizing mechanism (eg, FIGS. 6, 7) to allow the photoactivation device (100) to sink. The body is provided with one or more ventilation ports (118) to allow the cavity to be flooded with a cleaning solvent (eg, water), which also provides a stabilizing mechanism. Through the same ventilation port (118), the wash solvent (eg, water) can exit the cavity (120) during the wash cycle. The light activator (100) does not have to have an opening.

The light activator (100) further comprises a light source (160) configured to emit light for activating the photoactivator. The light source may include one or more LEDs. The LEDs are preferably heat resistant to withstand the temperatures typically encountered during the cleaning cycle (eg, 30 ° C. to 90 ° C.).

The light source (160) may include a plurality of LEDs in which the light emitted from all of the plurality of LEDs is within the same wavelength range. The light source (160) may include a plurality of LEDs in which the light emitted from at least two of the plurality is in different wavelength ranges. The light source (160) is optionally arranged in the interstitial space (116, 122) inside the body (110) in the base portion (112) and / or the side wall (114) of the light activator (100). May be done.

When a plurality of LEDs are present, they may be driven by multiplexing (fast sequential switching) in order to control the intensity individually or collectively and reduce power consumption.

The light source (160) is such that at least one of the plurality (eg, one, two, or more) emits light into the cavity (120), eg, as shown in FIGS. 1-4. May include a plurality of LEDs, which are internal emitters (160a) arranged in. The internal emitter (160a) is optionally within the interstitial space (116, 122) inside the body (110) in the base portion (112) and / or side wall (114) of the photoactivating device (100). It may be arranged.

The internal emitter (160a) may be located within the region of the base portion (112) and / or the region of the side wall (114). The internal emitter (160a) activates one or more photoactive ingredients contained in the cavity (120). They activate one or more photoactive ingredients in a solution or suspension with a washing solvent (eg, water) that temporarily enters the cavity (120) during the washing cycle. The internal emitter (160a) may be distributed around the base portion (112) and / or the side wall (114) at a density of at least one internal emitter (160a) per ^{2 cm 2.} The internal emitter (160a) is provided when the body (110) is placed with the opening (130) or vent port (118), thereby at least in the cavity 120 during the initial stages of the wash cycle. May allow activation of one or more photoactive ingredients in the washing composition while retained in.

At least one of the plurality of light sources (160) (for example, one, two, or more) is an external space, for example, a cavity, as shown in, for example, FIGS. 2, 4, 5, and 7. It may include a plurality of LEDs, which are external emitters (160b) arranged to emit light outside the (120). The external emitter (160b) is optionally within the interstitial space (116, 122) inside the body (110) in the base portion (112) and / or side wall (114) of the light activator (100). It may be arranged.

The external emitter (160b) may be located within the region of the base portion (112) and / or the region of the side wall (114). The external emitter (160b) activates one or more photoactive ingredients in a solution or suspension with a washing solvent (eg, water) during the washing cycle. The external emitter (160b) may be distributed around the base portion (112) and / or the side wall (114) at a density of at least one internal emitter (160a) per ^{2 cm 2.}

All or part of the external emitter (160b) is, for example, of the body (110) known as the pretreatment (PT) region (162) in the base (112), as shown in FIGS. 4-7. It may be placed in the area. The PT region (162) may occupy ≦ 50% of the outer surface of the light activator (100). The external emitter (160b) within the PT region (162) can be activated by manually shining light on one or more photoactive ingredients when the laundry composition is applied directly to the laundry. To. If the user wishes to pre-treat the laundry, for example if the article is heavily stained, a portion of the laundry composition can be applied to the laundry prior to washing in the washing machine. The light activator (100), specifically the PT region (162), swipes the entire application region and the light emitted by the external emitter (160b) shining in the PT region produces one or more photoactive components. Can be activated. The motion detection unit (see below) can detect the swipe motion of the light activator (100) and selectively activate the external emitter (160b) within the PT region (162).

The light source (160) can emit light in one wavelength range or two or more different wavelength ranges. The wavelength range may be selected based on one or more photoactive ingredients present in the washing composition. The light absorption characteristics of the photoactive ingredient may at least partially overlap with the light emission characteristics of the light source. The wavelength range of the light source (160) may be visible, UV range, or a combination of both. The wavelength range of the light source (160) may be selected from the spectral range of 250 nm to 750 nm. The wavelength range is ultraviolet (about 350 to 380 nm), purple (about 380 to 450 nm), blue (about 450 to 495 nm), green (about 495 to 570 nm), yellow (about 570 to 590 nm), and orange (about 590 to 620 nm). ), Or red (about 620-750 nm) light. Table 1 below shows an exemplary emission range of a light source suitable for activating various photoactive ingredients.

A wavelength range corresponding to UV (about 350 to 400 nm), blue (400 to 495 nm) or red light (600 to 700 nm) is preferred.

The light activating device (100) is configured to detect movement of the light activating device (100) in one or more degrees of freedom (DOF), for example, as shown in FIGS. 3-7. A detection unit (170) may be further provided. The motion detection unit (170) outputs a signal in response to the motion of the light activation device (100). The motion detection unit (170) may detect rotary motion and / or displacement motion. The rotary motion may have a 3DOF. The displacement movement may have a 3DOF. The motion detection unit (170) is intended to detect movement along a linear axis of at least 1 (1DOF), preferably 3 (3DOF), and / or at least 1 (1DOF), preferably 3 (3DOF). An accelerometer configured in may be provided. The motion detection unit (170) may include an orientation sensor (eg, a gyroscope, a compass) configured to measure the orientation or orientation change of the light activator (100). The gyroscope typically measures the angular velocity of rotational motion about a rotation axis of at least 1 (1 DOF), preferably 3 (3 DOF). The motion detection unit (170) may include both an accelerometer and an orientation sensor.

The motion detection unit (170) may be attached to the light activation device (100) or its main body (110) in a fixed (that is, position and orientation) relationship.

The motion detection unit (170) may be optionally arranged in the internal gap space (116) in the main body (110) in the base portion (112) of the light activation device (100). The motion detection unit (170) may be optionally arranged in the internal gap space (122) in the main body (110) in the side wall (114) of the light activation device (100).

The motion detection unit (170) may optionally include a drum when the light activator (100) is in a fixed position and / or orientation with respect to the laundry, and optionally when the stirring unit is activated. For example, it can be detected by the movement of the photoactivation device (100) during simultaneous rotation during agitation or dehydration cycle. The motion detection unit (170) can be detected by the movement of the light activator (100) when the cleaning cycle is started and / or completed.

The light activator (100) is configured to control the light source (160), preferably in response to a signal received from the motion detection unit (170), as shown, for example, FIGS. 3-7. A controller (180) may be further provided. The controller (180) may be configured to control the light source (160), preferably in response to a switch. The light activator (100) may further include a controller (180) along with a switch and / or motion detection unit (170). The controller (180) typically comprises an electronic circuit. The electronic circuit may include a processor and memory. Controlling a light source means controlling one or more of intensity, irradiation pattern (eg, steady or blinking) regardless of whether it is turned on or off. When the light source (160) includes a plurality of LEDs, it is possible to control which LED is on or off, the intensity of a subset of the LEDs, and the irradiation pattern (eg, steady or blinking). The controller may be configured to drive multiple LEDs by multiplexing. The LED controlled by the controller (180) may be an external emitter (160a) and / or an external emitter (160b). The controller (180) may selectively control the external emitter (160b) arranged in the preprocessing region.

The controller (180) may be configured to control the light source (160) in response to a switch. The switch may be an instant contact switch or a maintenance switch. The controller (180) may be configured to turn the light source on or off in response to a switch. The controller (180) may be configured to control the light source according to a series of preset times corresponding to the cleaning cycle initiated by the switch. In one example, the controller can turn on the light source (160) for 10 minutes after the switch is activated, keep it on for the duration of the wash cycle run (eg, 90-120 minutes), and then turn off the light source (160). ..

The controller (180) may be configured to control the light source (160) in response to a switch and / or motion detection unit (170).

The controller (180) may be configured to detect a signal from the motion detection unit (170) to start and / or complete the washing machine wash cycle. The controller (180) may be configured to control the light emitted by the light source (160) when the signal of the motion detection unit (170) corresponds to the start, duration, or end of the wash cycle. The LED controlled by the controller (180) may be an external emitter (160a) and / or an external emitter (160b).

The controller (180) responds to the signal received from the motion sensor during the wash cycle.
-Whether to reduce the light emitted by the light source (160), set the light emitted by the light source (160) to the low (L) setting, or-increase the light emitted by the light source (160). Or set the light emitted by the light source (160) to the normal (N) setting,
It may be configured as follows.

A reduced or low (L) setting may correspond to an overall dimming and / or an overall extinction of emitted light and / or a lower light source emission level than the normal (N) setting. Dimming can be achieved by reducing the voltage supplied to the light source (steady or in time) or by turning off one or more LEDs, whereby the overall dimming effect is achieved. .. The LED that contributes to the emission reduction or low (L) setting may be an external emitter (160a) and / or an external emitter (160b). At the low (L) setting, the photoactivating device (100) activates one or more photoactive ingredients in the washing composition present in the cavity (120) and / or the washing solvent (eg, water). Can emit insufficient light.

The emission increase or normal (N) setting may correspond to an overall increase in emission and / or a predefined light source emission level higher than the low (L) setting. In the normal (N) setting, the photoactivation device can activate one or more photoactive ingredients in the washing composition present in the cavity (120) and / or the cleaning solvent (eg, water). The increase can be achieved by increasing the voltage supplied to the light source (steady or in time) or by relighting one or more LEDs, whereby more light emission is achieved overall. .. The LEDs that contribute to the increased emission or the normal (N) setting may be an external emitter (160a) and / or an external emitter (160b). In the normal (N) setting, the photoactivating device (100) activates one or more photoactive ingredients in the washing composition present in the cavity (120) and / or the washing solvent (eg, water). Can emit enough light.

The normal (N) setting may have different intensities depending on the degree of motion determined by the signal received from the motion detection unit (170). For example, N1 may be the maximum intensity during agitation (A), while N2 may be less intense but still stronger than the emission in the (L) setting, the N2 setting. May be applied during pause (R).

The controller (180) is a signal received from the motion detection unit (170) indicating that the washing cycle is being executed, and / or a light activating device (or) for one or more laundry in the washing machine during the washing cycle. The light source (160) may be configured to be controlled according to the fixed position and / or inorganic (straight line and angle) of 100). Preferably, the controller (180) is configured to reduce the light emitted by the light source (160) or set the light emitted by the light source (160) to a low (L) setting in such cases. Has been done.

During the wash cycle, the light emission may be of constant intensity, or may increase or decrease depending on the stage of the wash cycle or the fixed position / rotation relationship of the light activator with the laundry. Good (see below).

During the cleaning cycle, the controller reduces the light emitted by the light source (160) to low (L) or normal (N) in response to the movement of the light activator (100) indicated by the signal of the motion detection unit (170). ) May be configured to set in the settings. Controller (180), the signal of the operation detection unit (170) is non-activity time of the stirring unit _{(e.g., t rest)} when corresponding to, for example, washing drum, paddle, or stirrer is stationary during the wash cycle execution At this time, the light emitted by the light source (160) may be reduced, or the light emitted by the light source (160) may be set to the low (L) setting.

In the controller (180), when the signal of the motion detection unit (170) _{corresponds to the active time of the stirring unit (eg, tagation} ), for example, the washing drum, paddle, or stirring is active during the washing cycle. When is present, it may be configured to increase the light emitted by the light source (160) or to set the light emitted by the light source (160) to the normal (N) setting.

By controlling the light source (160) according to the movement of the motion detection unit (170) with respect to the laundry, local overbleaching of the laundry is reduced or prevented. The light activator (100) is suitable for mechanical agitation of any degree of the wash cycle, with no known rest time and agitation time. The release of the photoactivated product is slower, allowing other agents in the laundry composition to have an effect before or during activation.

The controller locally overbleaches the laundry when the light activator (100) is positioned and / or rotationally fixed to one or more pieces of laundry in the washing machine during the washing cycle. Can be configured to prevent or reduce. The LED controlled by the controller (180) may be an external emitter (160a) and / or an external emitter (160b).

The controller (180) reduces the light emitted by the light source (160) or reduces the light emitted by the light source (160) when the signal of the motion detection unit (170) corresponds to the dehydration cycle of the washing machine. It may be configured to be set to a low (L) setting.

The controller (180) emits light emitted by the light source (160) when the signal from the motion detection unit (170) corresponds to the light activator being entangled with one or more pieces of laundry during the wash cycle. It may be configured to reduce or set the light emitted by the light source (160) to a low (L) setting.

At the start of the wash cycle, the controller (180) increases the light emitted by the light source (160) when the signal of the motion detection unit (170) corresponds to the start of the wash cycle, or by the light source (160). The emitted light may be configured to be set to the normal (N) setting. Detection of the start of a wash cycle primarily assists in power management to extend power life. Specifically, if the washing machine is programmed to start the cycle, eg, delayed at night, the automatic detection of the wash cycle will extend the life of the power supply. It further suppresses the activation of one or more photoactive ingredients in the washing composition until after the cycle has begun, thereby causing a washing solvent (eg, water) if it has the optimum effect. A timely release of the photoactivated product is made to coincide with the agitation of the laundry inside.

At the completion of the wash cycle, the controller (180) reduces the light emitted by the light source (160) when the signal of the motion detection unit (170) corresponds to the completion of the wash cycle, or by the light source (160). The emitted light may be set to a low (L) setting or configured to switch off the light source.

The controller (180) may be configured to determine the operation mode (652) selected from activation (656) and sleep (654, 658) from the signal received from the motion detection unit (170) (eg,). , See FIG. 13). In sleep (654, 658) mode, the light activator (100) is typically not in use and no motion is detected. Luminescence can be stopped or turned off (682, 698). One or more sensors can be turned off to reduce power consumption. Sleep mode assists power management primarily to extend power life. Switching to sleep mode termination extends power life, especially if the washing machine has not been emptied for several hours. Sleep mode may be activated by detecting little or no movement for a duration (eg, after 10 minutes) and is maintained unless motion detection unit (170) detects little or no movement. .. The operation mode can be switched from sleep (654, 658) to activation (656) when the active sensor in the motion detection unit (170) detects motion. In activation mode, more or all of the motion sensors in the motion detection unit (170) are activated. In activation mode (656), the controller may be configured to determine the activity mode (660) and / or the state of the light activator (666) from the motion detection unit (170).

The controller (180) may be configured to determine from the signal received from the motion detection unit (170) the swipe (662) and wash cycle execution, the activity mode (660) that can be selected from the AWC (664). (See, for example, FIG. 13). In the activity mode (660), the controller (180) detects motion when the light activator is swiped across the laundry in a sweeping motion to pre-treat the stain with a portion of the laundry agent by the user. Determined from the unit (170), it is set to swipe (662). The controller (180) activates the light source (160), in particular the external emitter (160b), within the PT region (684) when in swipe (662) activity mode (660). The internal emitter (160a) and / or the external emitter (160b) outside the PT region may or may not be activated. Controller (180), over optionally additional time _{(t swipe),} the duration of the sweep operation may maintain the swipe (662) the active mode (660).

The activity mode (660) is AWC (664) when the controller (180) determines from the motion detection unit (170) that the light activator (100) is located in the washing space and the wash cycle is in progress. It may be set to (cleaning cycle execution). The activity mode (660) coincides with the stage of the wash cycle, and the controller (180) determines from the motion detection unit (170) that the light activator is moving (displaced and / or rotated) in space. Then, it is set to AWC (664). The controller (180) activates and adjusts the light source (160) when in the AWC (664) activity mode (660) (see FIGS. 8868-696). The adjustment of the light source (160) may be determined by the state of the light activator, PD (666), which will be described later. Both one internal emitter (160a) and multiple external emitters (160b) may be activated. Both the plurality of internal emitters (160a) and the plurality of external emitters (160b) may be activated. Both the plurality of internal emitters (160a) and the plurality of external emitters (160b) excluding the PT region may be activated. Only the internal emitter (160a) may be activated. The controller (180) may optionally maintain the AWC (664) activity mode (660) for the duration of the rotational motion for an _{additional time (t AWC).} In the AWC (664) activity mode (660), the controller may be configured to determine the state (666) of the light activator from the motion detection unit (170).

From the signal received from the motion detection unit (170), the controller (180) determines the state (666) of the light activator, PD, which can be selected from motion (M) or fixation (F) for the laundry. It may be configured as follows. The PD state (666) may be in activity mode (660) when in AWC (664) (cleaning cycle execution) activity mode (660). In the PD state (666) during exercise (M), the light activator (100) is determined to be moving, eg, rotating and / or swirling with respect to the laundry. Typically, the PD state (666) during (M) exercise occurs during agitation (A), sometimes in the early stages of the rest (R) period of the wash cycle run (613). In the state of PD (666) during fixation (F), it is determined that the light activator (100) is not moving with respect to the laundry, eg, is rotationally and positionally fixed. Typically, the state of PD (666) during fixation (F) is when the photoactivation device (100) is entangled by one or more laundry and / or the washing machine is dehydrated cycle (S). Occurs when inside. The controller (180) may be configured to control the light source (160) in response to the PD state (666) during fixation (F) or motion (M).

Preferably, the controller (180) is configured to set the light emitted by the light source (160) in the state of PD (666) during fixation (F) to the low (L) setting. By controlling the light source (160) according to the motion of the PD state (666), local overbleaching of the laundry is reduced or prevented. The light source (160) controlled by the controller (180) may be an external emitter (160a) and / or an external emitter (160b).

Preferably, the controller (180) is configured to set the light emitted by the light source (160) in the state of PD (666) during motion (M) to the normal (N) setting. The movement of the light activator (100) in the washing space of the washing machine maximizes the delayed release of the light activator product. Delayed release is advantageous because the life of the photoactivated product is short and other cleaning processes such as agitation, enzymatic degradation, dissolution may deprive the effect in or before the photoactivated product.

In FIG. 13, the mechanical motion (box 630) of the light activator (100) is set by the user's pretreatment or washing machine cycle (box 610), the controller (170) in response to the signal of the sensor unit (170). Set to the corresponding exemplary modes and states (box 650), and the corresponding exemplary activity of the light source (160) (box 680).

In box 610, the washing machine before washing is in the off state (612) and is inactive. The off state is typically during washing or when the washing machine is set to a timer. During the wash cycle run (613), there is typically a stirring (A) and rest (R) period followed by a dehydration cycle (S). During stirring, drums, paddles, stirrers, etc. are activated to guide the laundry to move. As an example, the wash cycle (613) begins with a pre-wash cycle (614, 616) that includes agitating (A) and rest (R) steps (614) followed by dehydration cycles (S) (616). Following the pre-wash cycle (614, 616) there is a stirring (A) and rest (R) step (618) followed by a longer main wash cycle (618, 620) including the dehydration cycle (S) (620). .. Following the main wash cycle (618, 620) there is a stirring (A) and rest (R) step (620) followed by a more rinsing cycle (620, 622) including a dehydration cycle (S) (622). At the end of the wash cycle (613), the washing machine returns to the off state (624).

In box 630, the light activator (100) does not move for a period of time and has an inactive state (632). The inactive state is typically when the light activator (100) is stored, or the washing machine is set to a timer and the light activator (100) is in the washing space in an inactive state. It's time. Prior to the washing cycle, the user applies a portion of the washing composition directly to activate the light sources (160, 160b) in the pretreatment area and one or more photoactive components in the washing composition. Therefore, the stain on the laundry may be manually pretreated by swiping (634) the light activator (100) over the entire stain. During the wash cycle run (613), the movement of the light activator (100) can be classified as motion (m) or fixation (f) with respect to the laundry. In motion (m), the light activator (100) is moving, eg, rotating and / or swirling with respect to the laundry. Typically, the light activator (100) moves during the agitation (A) phase of the wash cycle, and sometimes during the initial phase of the pause (R) period of the wash cycle run (613). In the fixation motion (f), the photoactivation device is not moving with respect to the laundry article, eg, is rotationally and positionally fixed. The operation of the light activator (100) in the box 630 corresponds to the stage of cleaning cycle execution in the box 610. During the pre-cleaning cycle (614, 616), the movement of the photoactivation device (100) is kinetic (m) or fixed (f) (636) during the (A) / (R) stages (614) of the cleaning cycle. , And during the dehydration cycle (616) can be classified as fixed (f) (638). During the main wash cycle (618, 620), the movement of the light activator (100) is kinetic (m) or fixed (f) (640) during the (A) / (R) steps (618) of the wash cycle. , And during the dehydration cycle (616) can be classified as fixed (f) (642). During the rinse cycle (620, 622), the movement of the photoactivation device (100) is during the (A) / (R) steps (620) of the wash cycle, exercise (m) or fixation (f) (644),. And during the dehydration cycle (622) it can be classified as fixed (f) (646).

In box 650, the controller (180) responds to the signal received from the sensor unit (170) with different modes and states (eg, operating mode (652), active mode (660), light activator (PD)). The state (666) may be set.

The mode of operation (652) may be set to sleep (654, 658) corresponding to inactivity (632, 648) in box 630 of the light activator (100), which is not described herein. As mentioned in the section, it can consume less power. The operation mode 652 may be set to swipe (634) in the box 630 of the light activator (100) or activation (656) corresponding to the motion and fixed movement period (634-646), and the light activator. (100) consumes more energy, and the controller (170) determines the movement of the light activator (100) (eg, (m), (f)) from the sensor signal.

The activity mode (660) may be set to a swipe (662) corresponding to a swipe operation (634) in the box 630 of the light activator (100), which is optionally an additional period t. The external emitter (160b) in the pretreatment region can be selectively lit during the _sweep. The activity mode (660) corresponds to the operation of the light activator (100), which can be classified as moving (m) or fixed (f) (636-646) in the box 630, and washing the washing machine in the box 610. It may be set to AWC (664) (cleaning cycle execution), which also corresponds to cycle execution.

The state (666) of the light activator (PD) is the light activator (100) during the wash cycle run (613) classified as motion (m) or fixation (f) on the laundry in the box 630. It may be set to the motion (M) or the fixation (F) corresponding to the movement of the. The state of PD (666) corresponds to the operation of the light activator (100), which can be classified as motion (m) or fixed (f) (636-646) in box 630, and corresponds to the operation of the washing machine in box 610. It may be set to (M) or (F) (668-678), which also corresponds to the stage of cleaning cycle execution (614-622).

The light source (160) in the box 680 corresponds to the inactivity (632, 648) in the box 630 of the light activator (100) and the sleep (654, 658) operating mode (652) in the box 650. , Off (682, 698). The light source (160) in the box 680, in particular the external emitter (160b) in the PT region (eg, the base), swipes (662) in the box 650, the activity mode (660), and the light activator in the box 630. It may be lit (684) corresponding to the swipe operation (634) of. The light source (160) in the box 680 has different intensity levels, normal (N1, N2), and low (L) (L) in response to the PD state (666) of (M) or (F) during the wash cycle. It may be set to 686 to 696).

During the pre-wash cycle (686) corresponding to the agitation (A) and pause (R) (614) of the washing machine state, the light source (160) is primarily at normal (N1, N2) levels and of (M). Corresponds to the PD state (668). Normal levels have been shown to have higher (N1) and lower (N2) levels, N1 levels are stronger, and light activator (100) migration is greater than N2, but still (M). ) Is selected when it is in the category. Occasionally, during the pre-cleaning cycle (686), the light source (160) becomes momentary at a low (L) level corresponding to the PD state (668) of (F), at which time the light activator (100). ) Has stopped moving or is in a tangled state with respect to the laundry. During the pre-wash cycle (688) corresponding to the dehydration (S) cycle (616) of the washing machine state, the light source (160) is primarily at low (L) levels and the PD state (670) of (F). Corresponds to. The light activator (100) stops moving with respect to the laundry during the dehydration cycle.

During the main wash cycle (690) corresponding to the agitation (A) and pause (R) (618) of the washing machine state, the light source (160) is primarily at normal (N1, N2) levels and of (M). Corresponds to the DD state (672). Occasionally, during the main wash cycle (690), the light source (160) becomes momentary at a low (L) level corresponding to the PD state (674) of (F), at which time the light activator (100). ) Has stopped moving or is in a tangled state with respect to the laundry. During the main wash cycle (692) corresponding to the dehydration (S) cycle (620) of the washing machine state, the light source (160) is primarily at low (L) levels and the PD state (674) of (F). Corresponds to.

During the rinse cycle (694) corresponding to the agitation (A) and pause (R) (620) of the washing machine state, the light source (160) is primarily at normal (N1, N2) levels and the PD of (M). Corresponds to state (676). Occasionally, during the rinse cycle (694), the light source (160) becomes momentary at a low (L) level corresponding to the PD state (676) of (F), at which time the light activator (100) Has stopped moving or is entangled with the laundry. During the rinsing cycle (696) corresponding to the dehydration (S) cycle (622) of the washing machine state, the light source (160) is primarily at low (L) levels and into the PD state (678) of (F). handle.

The motion detection unit (170), or in particular the controller (180), may be configured for motion detection in the washing machine. The movement may be the movement of a washing machine stirring unit configured to induce movement of the laundry (eg, rotation of the drum) and / or movement of the washing solvent, which may be centrifugal acceleration and / or angular acceleration. The photoactivating device (100) experiences a measurable centrifugal acceleration and / or tangential acceleration as a result.

Motion detection can be determined from measurements of centrifugal acceleration by motion detection units (170), especially controllers (180). When the washing machine drum rotates, the light activator (100) takes a similar motion in response to centrifugal force. ^{The centrifugal acceleration (m / s 2} ) expected to be experienced by the light activator (100) ^{can be determined from the equations □□} · r, where □ is the angular velocity in rad / sec. Yes, r is the radius of the washing machine drum in meters. Alternatively, the centrifugal acceleration (m / s ² ) can be approximately represented by (rpm / 10) ² × r, where rpm is the number of revolutions per minute of the washing machine drum. Typical angular velocities of washing machine drums during agitation (slow rotation) are in the range of 10-80 rpm (rpms per minute) and angular velocities are 100 rpm during other stages of the washing cycle, eg, during the dehydration cycle. It may be more than 200 rpm (for example, 500 rpm, 800 rpm, 1000 rpm or more). Typically, the radius r of the washing machine drum is in the range of about 0.2 m to about 0.4 m or more.

Using the detection of centrifugal acceleration, the activity mode of the washing machine, eg, wash cycle execution (AWC), and the steps within the wash cycle, eg, agitation (low speed drum rotation 10-80 rpm), high speed drum rotation (100 rpm and above). ), And the dehydration cycle (200 rpm and above) can be determined. It is also possible to determine when the light activator (100) is moving in synchronization with the drum (ie, is maintained in a fixed position with respect to a point on the drum) (eg, 100 rpm or higher).

The controller (180) may be configured to identify the wash cycle run (AWC, see below) from centrifugal acceleration. The motion detection unit (170), in particular the controller (180), is ^{configured to measure the centrifugal acceleration of, for example, 0.2 m / sec 2} or more (a drum with a radius of 0.2 m rotating at 10 rpm) indicating cleaning cycle execution. You may.

The controller (180) may be configured to identify the agitation step (slow drum rotation) during the wash cycle execution from the centrifugal acceleration. Operation sensing unit (170), in particular the controller (180) shows stirred stages during the wash cycle execution (the low-speed drum rotation), for ^example, rotating at 0.2m ^/ s ² ~26m / 2 range (10～80Rpm It may be configured to measure centrifugal acceleration (drums with a radius of 0.2-0.4 m). The controller may be configured to activate one or more photoactive ingredients in the treatment composition by setting the light source (160) to normal (N) in such a state.

The controller (180) may be configured to identify that the light activator (100) is moving in synchronization with the drum from a constant (non-zero) centrifugal acceleration. A constant centrifugal acceleration can be observed for a constant time (eg, at least 10 seconds). This is especially true during faster drum rotations where centrifugal force is applied (eg, above 100 rpm, which corresponds to ^{, for example, at least 20 m / s 2 centrifugal acceleration for a drum with a radius of 0.2 m rotating at 100 rpm).} It means that it is trapped or entangled in clothing. The light activator (100) is centrifuged towards the outer portion of the drum and remains in contact with a particular portion of the laundry for extended periods of time in an immovable state due to the high centrifugal force acting under these conditions. Under these conditions, the laundry can be locally bleached where the light activating device (100) continuously emits light activating light into the same area of the laundry. Therefore, the controller may be configured to set the light source (160) to a low level (L) level to avoid local damage to the laundry.

The controller (180) may be configured to identify the dehydration cycle during the wash cycle from the centrifugal acceleration. The motion detection unit (170), particularly the controller (180), measures the centrifugal acceleration indicating the dehydration cycle during the cleaning cycle, eg, at least 80 m / sec ² or more (a drum with a radius of 0.2 m rotating at 200 rpm or more). It may be configured as follows. During the dehydration cycle, the light activator (100) was centrifuged towards the outer part of the drum and was in constant contact with a particular part of the laundry due to the high centrifugal force acting under these conditions. Will remain. Under these conditions, the laundry can be locally bleached where the light activating device (100) continuously emits light activating light. Therefore, the controller may be configured to set the light source (160) to a low level (L) level to avoid local damage to the laundry. The controller may be configured to set the light source (160) to a low level (L) level under such conditions to avoid local damage to the laundry.

Motion detection can, additionally or optionally, be determined from the measurement of linear acceleration by a motion detection unit (170), particularly a controller (180). ^{The linear acceleration (m / s 2} ) expected to be experienced by the light activator (100) can be determined from the angular velocity (□□□) of the drum as follows: □ = 0 rpm to □ = 10 rpm. Assuming an average drum rotation that accelerates to less than 1 second, the angular acceleration is 1 rad / s ² , which is a linear acceleration along the tangent of 1 ^{rad / s 2} x 0.2 m = 0.2 m / s ^2. Therefore, the motion detection unit (170), in particular the controller (180), may be configured to measure ^{, for example, a linear acceleration of at least 0.1-0.2 m / s 2.}

The controller (180) may be configured to identify the wash cycle execution from linear acceleration. The motion detection unit (170), in particular the controller (180), may be configured to indicate cleaning cycle execution, eg, to measure a linear acceleration of ^{at least 0.1-0.2 m / sec 2 or higher.}

The controller (180) may be configured to identify the stirring step (slow drum rotation) during the wash cycle execution from the linear acceleration. The motion detection unit (170), in particular the controller (180), measures a linear acceleration of ^{at least 0.1-0.2 m / sec 2} indicating the stirring step (ie entering the slow drum rotation) during the wash cycle. It may be configured as follows.

The controller (180) receives the light activator (100) from a change in linear velocity, i.e., when the linear acceleration remains constant for a period of time (eg, 10-20 seconds or longer). , May be configured to identify that it is in the stage of moving in synchronization with the drum. This means that they are trapped or entangled in clothing, especially during faster drum rotations (eg, 100 rpm and above) where centrifugal force is applied. The light activator (100) is centrifuged towards the outer portion of the drum and remains in contact with a particular portion of the laundry for extended periods of time in an immovable state due to the high centrifugal force acting under these conditions. Under these conditions, the laundry can be locally bleached where the light activating device (100) continuously emits light activating light. Therefore, the controller may be configured to set the light source (160) to a low level (L) level to avoid local damage to the laundry.

For detecting centrifugal and linear accelerations, the motion detection unit (170) may include orientation sensors and / or accelerometers. In a preferred embodiment, the controller (180) detects when the motion detection unit (170) detects an orientation or angular velocity greater than 100 rpm corresponding to the synchronized movement of the light activator (100) and the drum, the light source (160). ) Is set to the low (L) setting, where the light activator (100) remains in contact with the particular fabric in a non-movable state due to the high centrifugal force acting under these conditions. Become.

The light activator (100) may further include a power source (190). The power supply (190) supplies power to the light source (160), the controller (180), and the motion detection unit (170). The power source (190) may include a non-rechargeable battery, a rechargeable battery, a capacitor, an induction coil, or a generator. The rechargeable battery may be rechargeable by induction. The power supply (190) may be arranged such that the weight center of gravity of the light activator (100) corresponds to the geometric center of gravity of the light activator (100). This allows uniform rotation for distribution and photoactivation of the washed composition.

Laundry is an item that is normally washable in a washing machine. These include clothing and other textile items such as curtains, towels, bedding, handkerchiefs, furniture covers.

Optionally, the photoactivation device (100) may include immobilized titanium dioxide. The immobilized titanium dioxide may be coated on the surface of the photoactivation device (100) and / or may be provided on a support such as a filter. At least a part of the main body (110) of the light activator (100) may be coated with titanium dioxide. Preferably, the immobilized titanium dioxide is arranged to receive the light emitted by the light source (160). The immobilized titanium dioxide may be provided on the cavity (120) wall. The immobilized titanium dioxide may be provided on the outer wall.

Immobilized titanium dioxide may have a specific surface area of about ^{50 m} 2 / g to about 400m ² / g. The bulk density of the immobilized titanium dioxide may be from about 100 g / L to about 800 g / L. The titanium dioxide may be carbon-modified titanium dioxide having a carbon content of about 0.01% by weight to about 5% by weight.

Visible spectrum radiation from about 380 nm to about 800 nm can activate titanium dioxide for photobleaching purposes. Titanium dioxide can also function as a light bleach when emitted with radiation having a wavelength of about 10 nm to about 1200 nm. Radiation in the UV spectrum may be unattractive due to potential human exposure issues.

Advantageously, when photoactivated, the immobilized titanium dioxide bleaches the dye present in the cleaning solvent. Dyes in the cleaning solvent from one dark laundry can be prevented from depositing on the lighter color laundry. In other words, it bleaches and neutralizes "temporary stains".

The washing treatment composition, also known as the treatment composition herein, may be formulated as a powder, liquid, suspension, emulsion suspension, tablet, pouch, or other form. The treatment composition may be fluid, which means that it can be injected from a container (510) and / or from a photoactivation device (100) with an opening 130. The treatment composition is for processing the laundry in the washing machine.

The washing treatment composition may be a laundry detergent or a fabric enhancer.

The treatment composition comprises one or more photoactive ingredients. The photoactive ingredient is one that chemically reacts with light. One of the photoactive ingredients may be a photoactive bleach.

The washing composition may include other ingredients such as, but not limited to, surfactants, fragrances, stabilizers, builders, bleaching agents, disinfectants, enzymes, graying inhibitors, whitening agents and the like. ..

The treatment composition may contain one or more photoactive ingredients, at least one of which may be a photoactive bleach.

The treatment composition is 0.005 ppm to 50 ppm, preferably 0.01 ppm to 10 ppm, more preferably 0.05 ppm to, in the wash solvent when the treatment composition is dissolved in the wash solvent in the recommended amount. It may contain a photoactive bleach or a mixture of different photoactive bleaches in an amount such as to provide a photoactive bleach concentration of 5 ppm, most preferably 0.1 ppm to 1 ppm.

The photoactive bleach may be suitable for bleaching any laundry, such as riboflavin, phloxine B, and erythrosin, or salts thereof.

For example, a suitable photoactive bleach may be riboflavin. Radiation in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm or in the near UV range of 320 nm to 400 nm can activate riboflavin for the purpose of light bleaching. The treatment composition may comprise riboflavin in an amount ranging from about 1% by weight to about 0.001% by weight of the treatment composition.

For example, a suitable photoactive bleach may be phloxine B. Radiation with wavelengths in the range of about 500 nm to 580 nm can activate phloxine B for the purpose of photobleaching. The treatment composition may comprise phloxine B in an amount ranging from about 1% by weight to about 0.001% by weight of the treatment composition.

For example, a suitable photoactive bleach may be erythrosin. Radiation with wavelengths in the range of about 450 nm to 550 nm can activate erythrosin for the purpose of photobleaching. The treatment composition may contain an amount of erythrosin in the range of about 1% by weight to about 0.001% by weight of the treatment composition.

The container unit (500) is configured to stably store the washing treatment composition. The wash-treated composition may be configured to distribute the wash-treated composition, preferably by using a pump dispenser or by pouring through a stopper. When formulated as tablets or pouches, it may be configured to extract the amount of laundry composition used. The container unit (500) may be refillable after one use or disposable.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 8-12, the container unit (500) comprises a container (510) and closures (eg, caps (540), lids (542)) for sealing or closing the container. .. Closures may be repeatedly closed. The container (510) comprises a container body (516) that defines a storage volume (520) for holding a plurality of uses of the laundry composition (522). The washing composition may be blended as a liquid or gel, for example in the examples of FIGS. 8-11. The washing composition may be blended as a powder, tablet, or pouch usage, for example in the example of FIG.

The container (510) typically has a base end (502) and an upper end (504). Arranged at the end of the base (520) is a base (512) configured to stably support the container (510) in an upright position when placed on the base (512). Is. Extending from the base portion (512) is the side wall (514). The upper end (504) is typically provided with an opening (530) for pouring or removing the washing composition.

In FIGS. 8 to 11, the side wall (514) narrows toward the upper end to form an opening (530). The side wall (514) narrows toward the upper end and may optionally form a threaded (534) neck (532) around the opening (530). In FIG. 12, the side wall (514) remains straight, forming a wide opening (530) to access the storage volume (520).

In the upright position, the washing composition is held in the container (510). The carrying or injecting handle (518) may be integrated with the container body (516). Tilt the container (510) to pour the liquid or powder treatment composition through the opening (530).

The container unit (500) may further include repeatable closures (540, 542) for sealing or closing the container (510) opening (530). The repeatable closure may include, for example, a threaded cap (540), as shown in FIGS. 8-11. The thread (544) on the inside of the cap (540) may work with the thread (534) on the outside of the container (510) neck (532), whereby the cap is rotationally tightened. And the container (510) storage volume (520) is sealed, and the container (510) can be unsealed by rotating the screw thread in the opposite direction and loosening the cap. The repeatable closure may include, for example, a lid (542), as shown in FIG. The lid rim works with the opening rim to allow closure of the storage volume (520).

The container unit (500) may further include connecting elements (115, 117, 538, 539) for repeatedly attaching the photoactivation device (100) to the container unit (500). The connecting element includes, for example, a protrusion (538) (see, for example, FIG. 9) in which the opening (130) of the photoactivation device (100) is engaged and latched, and the light activation device (100). May be integrated with the threaded cap (540) as a stop member (539) configured to prevent the light from advancing beyond the cap (540). The connecting element may be included, for example, in the protrusion (115) of the side wall (514) of the container (510), as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. The connecting elements preferably work together around the body (110) of the light activator (100) and its opening (130). The type of connection may be press fit, screw, and / or magnetic. The connecting element is located in the area (117) of the magnetic container (510) side wall (514) by utilizing, for example, one or more permanent magnets (588), as shown in FIGS. 12 and 12A. May be included.

The container unit (500) is an induction coil (594) configured to inductively charge the rechargeable battery of the light activator (100), for example, as shown in FIGS. 11, 12 and 12A. May be placed with. The induction coil (594) may be connected to a charging controller (590) connected to the container power supply (592), for example, as shown in FIG. The charging controller is configured to regulate the flow of current from the power supply to the induction coil.

The power source may be a container power source (592), including a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. The container power supply (592) may be integrated in the container. Examples of suitable non-rechargeable battery types include lithium and alkaline batteries. The container power supply (592) and the charging controller (590) may be arranged in a cavity in the base portion of the container (510).

The power source may be an electric adapter that uses an outlet. The induction coil (594) is located in the base portion (512) of the container (510) that cooperates with the complementary electrical contacts (582) located in the docking station (580), for example, as shown in FIG. It may be connected to an electrical contact (584). The container base (512) can be removably placed on the docking station (580). When the container is engaged in the docking station (580), the power from the docking station is connected to a power source such as an electrical adapter that uses an outlet and goes to the induction coil (594) via electrical contacts (582, 584). Supply power. Any regulator (586) can control the supply of power to the induction coil (594).

The induction coil (594) may be operably arranged with respect to the connecting element (115, 117, 538) and is configured to charge the light activator (100) attached to the connecting element. .. The light activator (100) may include a complementary induction coil (196) that receives an induction current from the induction coil (594) of the container unit (500), and the charging current is along the cable (194). , Conducted to a charging regulator (192) connected to a power source (190), which is a rechargeable battery in the light activating device (100).

The container unit (500) may be made substantially from one or more opaque materials. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, metal, or other materials. The container unit (500) may be opaque to electromagnetic radiation in the wavelength range of about 2 nm to about 1200 nm, or even more about 380 nm to about 800 nm. Opacity means that the transmittance is reduced by more than about 80%, or more than 90%, or more than about 95%, or more than about 99%, as compared with the case where the radiation is completely transmitted.

As described herein, a kit further comprising a light activator (100) and a container unit (500) is provided.

Further provided is a kit comprising the photoactivating device (100) described herein and the washing treatment composition described herein.

Further provided is the use of the photoactivation device (100) described herein for washing laundry in a washing machine.

It ’s a way to wash the laundry,
-A step of arranging the light activator (100) in the washing space of the washing machine for washing with the washing treatment composition described herein.
-The process of stirring the laundry with a washing machine during the washing cycle,
-Including the step of activating one or more photoactive ingredients in the washing composition by the light source (160) of the light activator (100).
This is the way to wash the laundry.

Further provided is a method of washing the laundry,
-A step of providing a light activator (100) arranged with an opening (130) as described herein, and
-A step of distributing the amount of the washing composition described herein to the cavity (120), and
-The process of arranging the light activation device (100) in the washing space of the washing machine,
-The process of stirring the laundry with a washing machine during the washing cycle,
-Including the step of activating one or more photoactive ingredients in the washing composition by the light source (160) of the light activator (100).
This is the way to wash the laundry.

This method is performed by the light source (160) when the signal of the motion detection unit (170) corresponds to the dehydration cycle of the washing machine or when the light activator is entangled with one or more laundry during the washing cycle. Further may include a step of reducing the emitted light or setting the emitted light by the light source (160) to a low (L) setting.

This method is a process of pretreatment of laundry,
-A step of distributing a part of the washing treatment composition described in the present specification on the stain area of the laundry, and
-A step of swiping or sweeping the light activator (100) over the stained area, thereby activating the light source (160), preferably the external emitter (160b), within the pretreatment area (162).
-Including the step of activating one or more photoactive ingredients in the washing composition by the light source (160) of the light activator (100).
This may further include a step of pretreating the laundry.

Claims (16)

A light activating device (100) deployed in a washing machine for activating one or more photoactive ingredients in a washing composition.
-A light source (160) configured to emit light for activation of one or more of the photoactive ingredients.
-Controller (180) and
-A switch and / or motion detection unit (170), wherein the controller (180) responds to the switch and / or a signal received from the motion detection unit (170). A switch and / or motion detection unit configured to control the light source (160).
-Optionally, the light activator (100)
-A body (110) defining a cavity (120) for receiving and holding the washing composition, and a body (110).
-A photoactivation device further comprising an opening (130) into the cavity (120), which is configured to receive the washing composition. A light activating device (100) deployed in a washing machine for holding a washing treatment composition containing one or more photoactive ingredients.
-A body (110) defining a cavity (120) for receiving and holding the washing composition, and a body (110).
-With an opening (130) into the cavity (120) that is configured to receive the washing composition.
-With a light source (160) configured to emit light for activation of the one or more photoactive ingredients.
Arbitrarily
The light activator (100)
-Controller (180) and
-The switch and / or the motion detection unit (170), wherein the controller (180) responds to the switch and / or a signal received from the motion detection unit (170). A light activation device further comprising a switch and / or a motion detection unit configured to control a light source (160). The controller (180) received from the motion detection unit (170) indicating a fixed position and / or orientation of the light activating device (100) with respect to one or more pieces of laundry in the washing machine. It is configured to control the light source (160) in response to a signal.
Optionally, the controller (180) reduces the light emitted by the light source (160) in response to a centrifugal acceleration of ^{at least 20 m / s 2} measured by the motion detection unit (170). The light activation device according to claim 1 or 2, which is configured in the above. The controller (180) is driven by the light source (160) when the signal of the motion detection unit (170) corresponds to an inactive period of the washing machine stirring unit configured to guide the movement of the laundry. The light activation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which is configured to reduce the emitted light. The signal of the motion detection unit (170) is
-The movement of the light activating device (100) synchronized with the movement of the washing machine stirring unit configured to induce the movement of the laundry and the light activating device (100), optionally of choice. The movement, in which the centrifugal acceleration measured by the motion detection unit (170) is constant.
Or
-A dehydration cycle of the washing machine, optionally, where the centrifugal acceleration measured by the motion detection unit (170) is at least 80 m / sec ² .
When responding to
The light activation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the controller (180) is configured to reduce the light emitted by the light source (160). The light activation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the motion detection unit (170) includes one or more accelerometers and / or one or more orientation sensors. 1. The light source (160) includes a plurality of LEDs, and at least some of the LEDs are internal emitters (160a) arranged to emit light in the cavity (120). The light activation device according to any one of 1 to 6. The light source (160) includes a plurality of LEDs, and at least some of the LEDs are external emitters (160b) arranged to emit light in an external space, claim 1-7. The light activator according to any one of the following items. At least one of the external emitters (160b) is optionally within the PT region (162), which is a region that occupies ≤50% of the outer surface of the light activator (100). The light activating device according to claim 8, which is arranged in the base portion (112) of the activating device (100). Any one of claims 1-9, further comprising a power source (190), optionally said the power source (190) includes a non-rechargeable battery, a rechargeable battery, a capacitor, an induction coil, or a generator. The photoactivation device according to. The light activation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the light source (160) includes at least two LEDs that emit light in different wavelength ranges. It ’s a kit,
-A light activating device (100) deployed in a washing machine for activating one or more photoactive ingredients in the washing composition.
-A container unit (500) for storage and distribution of the washing composition containing one or more photoactive ingredients.
And / or
-Contains a washing composition comprising one or more photoactive ingredients optionally housed in the container unit (500).
The light activator (100)
-Equipped with a light source (160) configured to emit light for activation of the one or more photoactive ingredients.
-Optionally, the light activator (100)
-A body (110) defining a cavity (120) for receiving and holding the washing composition, and a body (110).
— Further comprising an opening (130) into the cavity (120), which is configured to receive the washing composition.
kit. The kit according to claim 12, wherein the photoactivation device (100) is the photoactivation device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11. The kit according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the one or more photoactive ingredients are selected from riboflavin, phloxine B, erythrosin, or salts thereof. 12. The container unit (500) comprises connecting elements (115, 538) configured to attach the photoactivating device (100) to the container unit (500) in a removable and repeatable manner. The kit according to any one of 1 to 14. The container unit (500) is arranged together with a container power source (592) and an induction coil (594) operably arranged with respect to the connecting element (115, 538), and the connecting element (115, 538). The kit according to claim 15, which is configured to charge the rechargeable power source (190) of the light activator (100) attached to the light activator (100).

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